Republican Leadership Mocks Zika Crisis, Targets Planned Parenthood

Share This

Statement from Dana Singiser, Vice President of Public Policy and Government Affairs for Planned Parenthood Federation of America:

“Last night, while many House members launched a valiant effort to force dramatic attention to the serious need to address gun safety, House Leadership responded by passing a conference report with limited funds to address Zika that mocks the seriousness of this looming public health crisis.

“The bill plays politics with women’s health, going so far as to single out the types of providers best able serve those affected, including family planning providers like Planned Parenthood. Furthermore, the bill underfunds U.S. global health programs and fails to provide resources for critical family planning and maternal and child health programs. In the face of threats to the public, elected officials have a responsibility to rise above politics and take meaningful action. Instead, Republicans have once again reverted back to the same agenda we have seen time and time again of attacking women’s health care.

“It is just common sense that women need more access to basic family planning at home and abroad in the face of Zika, not less. We applaud the leaders working toward a responsible response to Zika that expands access to family planning, and those who are taking a stand on the need to address gun violence in this country.

“Planned Parenthood health centers serve 2.5 million patients a year with family planning and reproductive health care services. We know how important it is to women to be able to access necessary health care, and how scary it can be for them when that access is taken away.”

###

Planned Parenthood is the nation's leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable health care for women, men, and young people, as well as the nation's largest provider of sex education. With approximately 700 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect and without judgment. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable health information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives.